Monster
/ˈmɔnstər/neuter
The English word "monster" can be translated into German as Monster or Ungeheuer.
Meaning: terrifying dangerous creature (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Monster | /ˈmɔnstər/ | neuter |
| Ungeheuer | /ˈʊnɡəˌhɔɪ̯ɐ/ | neuter |
Both words refer to a terrifying, dangerous creature.
Which one should you use?
While Monster is used for both literal creatures and metaphorical bad people, Ungeheuer often carries a more archaic, literary or specifically 'beastly' connotation.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural of Monster is Monster, so the word does not change its form in the plural.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈmɔnstər/
Did you know?
- The German word Monster was borrowed from English in the 18th century. It exists alongside Monstrum, which is a direct descendant of the original Latin word.
- The word ungeheuer is frequently used as an adverb meaning 'immensely' or 'extremely'. In this context, saying something is ungeheuer does not mean it is a monster but that it is incredibly large or intense.
- While Monster describes the creature, the adjective ungeheuer originally comes from geheuer, meaning 'safe' or 'familiar'. Adding the prefix un- creates a word that literally means 'un-familiar' or 'un-safe'.
Examples in context
- Ich bin ein Monster.I'm a monster.This sentence is useful for saying 'I am a monster' using Monster.Tatoeba #5097578 by al_ex_an_der, translation #5097576 by al_ex_an_der
- Ich bin kein Monster!I am not a monster.Tatoeba #1820736 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #1820204 by Amastan
- Ich bin kein Monster.I'm not a monster.Tatoeba #2151018 by Vortarulo, translation #1839534 by CK
- In dem alten Schloss haust ein furchterregendes Ungeheuer.A terrifying monster lurks in the old castle.
- Das Biest in diesem Film hat mich wirklich erschreckt!The monster in this movie really scared me!
- 64 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are watching a scary horror movie together.
- LukasDas Monster in dem Film ist schrecklich.The monster in the movie is terrible.
- LauraJa, es sieht wie ein echtes Monster aus.Yes, it looks like a real monster.
- LukasIch habe Angst vor dem Monster.I am afraid of the monster.
- LauraLass uns das Licht anmachen, Lukas.Let's turn the light on, Lukas.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “monster” translations and entries Monster, Ungeheuer, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Monster, Ungeheuer, ungeheuer, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
